Jealousy of Spirit, Part 1

Jealousy Defined 

Jealousy is our spirit's response to another who threatens our relationship with what we believe is ours. Jealousy invloves both emotional attachment and a sense of ownership.

"What we believe is ours" could be a person, another animal, a plant, a stone we cherish, any thing we value, a place or activity.

The "relationship" could be familial, romantic, a friendship, business relationship ,one in which we either give or receive special attention. The relationship could be one in which we are the owner. Whatever the relationship, we tend to believe we have a special status and exclusive privilege in the relationship.

The "threat" to our relationship could be another person, another animal, a plant, a stone, any physical thing, a place, or activity that could take away what we believe is ours.

How Jealousy Feels

Jealousy can feel like anger, disappointment, sadness, or a mix of these emotions. It differs from these emotions in that it always involves at least three parties with one in the role of threatening an pre-existing relationship.

For example, a husband might believe that his wife "is his" exclusively. If he perceives that another person, thing, or activity is a threat to his exclusive privilege, he might feel jealous and take action against either his wife or the perceived threat.

 

Mild to Intense Jealousy

Jealous can range from a mild, manageable twinge to intense, uncontrollable outrage.

Acute and Chronic Jealousy

It can arise suddenly and dissipate as quickly as it arose when the threat disappears. It can also smolder for weeks, months, or years. Jealousy can even be the thumic norm for some.